News release

From: The Royal Society

A unique yet technically simple type of joint allows for the high mobility of scorpion tails

The dexterity of scorpion tails (metasoma) is well known for precisely maneuvering the notorious sting quickly and with precision. Five tubular segments, that also contain the gut, are connected in a peculiar way that allows for twisting and bending. The unique joint type facilitating both movements is described here for the first time from a biological and engineering perspective. Insights can also be interesting e.g. for robotics, since the joint geometry must not be very precise, but still precise movement can be achieved. 

Pivot and sting - The ‘unique joints’ that lets scorpion tails manoeuvre and sting with precision have been described for the first time. The joints connect five tubular tail segments in a ‘peculiar way’ that allows for twisting and bending. This unique joint mechanism could inspire technical applications in robotics.